The search for an appropriate course is never easy, especially in a field such as interior design which requires not only imaginative thinking and design pizzazz but also practical ability and technical know-how. In such a competitive industry, it is vital colleges give their students more than just a degree. The level of industry exposure offered, along with the industry connections it provides to its students, really make the best interior design colleges stand out.

One of the leading design colleges, the International Academy of Design and Technology in Tampa, offers students a choice between two courses. The Associate of Science in Interior Design degree program offers students the opportunity to cultivate technical proficiency while expanding their knowledge of visual and verbal thinking; while their Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in Interior Design prepares students for management opportunities within the industry and subsequently couples creative design with professional and business skills. As former student Michelle Buchert states on the Academy website, “I wanted a school that had a recognized program in Interior Design and one that would really prepare me for a career in the field. I found that at the Academy.”

Other colleges are pushed up the ranks simply because of their industry contacts, after all, a course is only as good as the opportunities it makes available to its graduates. The University for Creative Arts in Surrey, England, offers a BA in Architecture and Interior Design and provides placements with companies such as the BBC, Karen Millen, UK Expo Jana, HMV and Gap for its final year students. Many students subsequently find work through these opportunities.

The Florence Design Academy, Italy offers the student something a little different and, while not one of the world’s leading colleges, does offer one of the best interior design courses in Europe. One of the biggest benefits to this three-year course is that students will emerge with a Masters qualification, giving them that all important advantage. Students are also encouraged to take part in international design contests, giving them vital practical exposure and hands-on experience. The city of Florence is also a big attraction, offering students a wealth of historical and modern inspiration.

Similarly, Harrington College of Design is one of the best design colleges simply because of its inspirational location. Chicago encases Harrington students in pioneering architecture and gives them access to innovative new design concepts through exhibitions at museums such as the Museum of Contemporary Art. Established in 1931 by a practising interior designer, Harrington continues the philosophy of professionals teaching professionals. As a result, students gain the technical training they require as well as the practice they need to develop client skills.

But when it comes to the best interior design college, the Academy of Art Institute in San Francisco clearly deserves the top spot. Not only does this institute possess excellent industry contacts, along with a strong academic history, it also lays claim to an exceptional job placement rate of 80%, with companies such as Pixar, Disney and LucasArt to name just a few. In addition to this, the academy has a world of design and creativity at its doorstep – within a few blocks of the campuses are museums, art galleries and many other sources of inspiration.

Did you know:

According to US News and World Reports the following are the top 2010 National Schools offering Art majors